| S
| [1] Sulfur An element with the atomic number of 16 [2] The desibnation for a stock car with a standard transmission |
| S/H
| Seat heater |
| S/N
| Serial number |
| S/V ratio
| The ratio of the surface area of a combustion chamber to its volume with the piston at TDC |
| S02
| Sulifur Dioxide |
| SA
| 1. A designation for an engine lubricating oil that may be used under the mildest of conditions. 2. The designation for a stock car with an automatic transmission. |
| SAC
| Spark advance control |
| saddle valve
| 1. A term used for saddle-clamp access valve. 2. A two-part accessory valve that may be clamped around the metal part of a system hose to provide access to the air conditioning system for service. |
| saddle-clamp access valve
| A two-port accessory valve that may be clamped around the metal part of a system hose to provide access to the system for diagnostics and service. |
| saddlebag
| Air chambers or openings in the left- and right-front corners of the car body between the kickpads and the exterior of the car. The evaporator is sometimes located in the right saddlebag. |
| SAE
| An acronym for Society of Automotive Engineers. |
| SAE horsepower
| The corrected brake horsepower of an engine when tested in accordance with SAE standards. |
| SAE standards
| A standard for automotive- and aircraft-engine testing and measurement established by the Society of Automotive Engineers. |
| Safe-T-Trak
| A limited-slip differential by Pontiac. |
| safety
| Prevention of injury or danger. |
| safety factor
| The amount of load that can be absorbed by and through the chassis-frame members of a vehicle. |
| safety glass
| Laminated glass used for vehicle windshields and windows; designed to resist shattering on impact. |
| safety glasses
| Eye glasses with or without side shields to protect the eyes when working in a hazardous environment and to be worn at all times when in the automotive shop. |
| safety goggles
| For those who wear prescription glasses, eye protection from all sides fitting over the glasses and against the face and forehead to seal and protect the eyes from outside hazards. |
| safety lap
| An extra lap taken by the winner of a race to ensure that an error was not made by the official lap scorer. |
| safety ridge
| A small, metal ridge just inside the tire-bead section to retain the tire position on the rim in case of a flat or blowout. |
| safety rim
| A groove around the outer edge of a rim to provide a lock for the tire bead. |
| safety valve
| A valve that opens to release excess pressure or heat. |
| safety wire
| A strong wire, usually stainless steel, used to hold pre-drilled nuts or bolts in place, preventing them from turning. |
| Safing Sensor
| The sensor that determines if the collision is severe enough to inflate the air bag |
| sag
| A momentary decrease in throttle rate after the vehicles has gained some speed. |
| SAI
| an acronym for Steering Axis Inclination; The angle of a line through the center of the upper strut mount and lower ball joint in relation to the true vertical centerline of the tire, viewed from the front of the vehicle |
| sail panel
| The roof rear-quarter panel on a notchback body style that extends from the rearmost side window to the rear window. |
| sailing
| A condition where chips, flakes, or scales of metal break off a part due to fatigue rather than by wear. |
| sales representative
| One who sells new and used merchandise, such as automobiles, to the general public. |
| saloon
| The British term for sedan. |
| salt flats
| The dry lake beds in the desert, such as Bonneville, used by hot roders for top-speed runs. |
| salvage yard
| A modern term for junkyard, an establishment that sells used auto parts. |
| Sam sled
| A consistently and unnecessarily slow drag-race drive. |
| Sample point
| the raw data from an ADC used to calculate waveform points |
| Sample Rate
| Refers to how frequently a digital oscilloscope takes a sample of the signal, specified in samples per second |
| Samples
| A reading taken from an ekectrical signal |
| Sampling
| The conversion of a portion of an input signal into a number of discrete electrical values for the purpose of storage, processing and/or display by an oscilloscope |
| Sampling Rate
| The number of readings taken from an electrical signal every second. usually in millions of samples per second |
| sand hole
| An unwanted hole in a sand-cast part. |
| sandbag
| 1. To legally secure equipment without having to pay for it. 2. To hold back in the staging area of a drag race in an attempt to select a specific opponent during eliminations. 3. To hold speed down in drag racing in an attempt to fall into a favorable bracket during final eliminations. 4. To deliberately run slower in road- or oval-track racing in an effort to conserve fuel and/or to psych the competitors. 5. A bag filled with sand that is used to help shape metal panels. |
| sandblast
| To clean metal part surfaces by forcing abrasives, usually fine sand, against it with compressed air. |
| sanitary
| A very clean or well prepared show or race car. |
| sano
| A term short for sanitary. |
| SAR
| Supplemental air restraints |
| SAS
| Spark advance solenoid |
| SATC
| An acronym for Semi-automatic temperature control. |
| saturated desiccant
| A drying agent that contains all of the moisture it can hold at a given temperature. |
| saturated drier
| A drier, accumulator-drier, or receiver-drier having a saturated desiccant. |
| saturated point
| The point at which matter mush change states at any given temperature and pressure. |
| Saturated Switch Injector
| A fuel injection system that produces a spiked square wave signal with verable pulse width or on time |
| saturated temperature
| The boiling point of a substance at a particular pressure. |
| saturated vapor
| A term that indicates that the space holds as much vapor as possible and no further vaporization is possible at that particular temperature. |
| saturation
| The point of maximum magnetic field strength of a coil. |
| sauce
| Racing fuel. |
| save
| To copy data from a temporary area to a more permanent storage medium. |
| SAW
| An acronym for Spark Angle Word. Which is the message sent on the SPOUT or EST line from the Electronic Control Unit to the Ignition Module for the control of the ignition timing. "OR" An acronym for submerged arc welding. |
| Sb
| [1] Antimony An element with the atomic number of 51 [2] A designation for lubricating oil that is acceptable for medium-duty engine poerated under mild conditions [3] An acronym for small block engine |
| SBC
| Single bed converter |
| SBDS
| Service Bay Diagnosis System. A computerized information network system that is connected, often by satellite, to the vehicle manufacturer and used to answer service and diagnostic questions. |
| SBEC
| Single board engine controller |
| SBS
| Supercharged bypass solenoid |
| Sc
| [1] Scandium An element with the atomic number of 21 [2] The designation for lubericating oil that meet the requirements for 1964 - 1967 gasoline engines in cars and trucks |
| SC-PFI
| Super charged-port fuel injection |
| SCA
| Super charger assembly |
| scattered
| An engine that has literally blown apart. |
| scattershield
| A reinforced housing around the clutch and flywheel to protect the driver from flying parts. |
| scavenge pump
| An oil pump that returns oil to the sump in a dry-sump system. |
| scavenger
| A powerful car that is difficult to beat in a race. |
| scavenger deposits
| White or yellow carbon deposits that normally occur when certain fuels are burned. |
| scavenging
| The forced removal of exhaust gases from a cylinder during the overlap period. |
| SCC
| Spark control computer |
| SCCA
| An acronym for Sports Car Club of America. |
| SCCS
| Speed control command switch |
| schematic
| A map-like drawing of the electrical system that gives the colors and shows the terminal points; used to trace the circuit for troubleshooting. |
| Schmitt Trigger
| An electronic circuit used to convert analog signals to digital signals or vice-a-versa |
| schrader valve
| A spring-loaded valve, similar to a tire valve, located inside the service-valve fitting and some control devices to hold vapor or fluid in the system. It requires special adapters for access to the system. |
| scientific notation
| Using powers of 10 as a sort of shorthand to keep track of decimal places. |
| scope
| A term used for oscilloscope. |
| scope pattern
| A graphical representation of the change in voltage on the line over a specific period of time |
| score
| 1. A scratch or small dent in the finished surface of a vehicle. 2. (SCORE) An acronym for Short Course Off-Road Enterprises |
| SCORE International
| The actual name for SCORE. |
| scoring
| The grooves worn into the friction surface on a brake drum or rotor which may be machined away; if the depth exceeds specified limits, the drum or rotor must be replaced. |
| SCP
| Standard Corporate Protocol |
| SCR
| An acronym for silicone controlled rectifier. |
| scrap yard
| 1. A firm selling used parts. 2. A firm that accepts scrap metal for recycling. |
| scraper ring
| The second ring from the top of a piston used to scrape oil from the cylinder wall. |
| scratch
| 1. To spin the drive wheels, usually enough to leave a mark on the road surface. 2. A mark on the finish of a body surface made by a scribe or other sharp object. 3. To make a mark on a finished surface using a sharp object, such as a key. |
| scratch built
| A vehicle built from the ground up, generally of an original design. |
| screamer
| A vehicle with spectacular performance. |
| screen
| A metal mesh located in the receiver, expansion valve, and compressor inlet to prevent partials of dirt from circulating through the system. |
| screw
| The final drive gear. |
| screw end nut
| A common kind of caliper actuated parking brake. |
| screw it on
| To rapidly accelerate. |
| screw it on the meter
| To install an engine on a dynamometer. |
| screw-thread pitch gauge
| A thin material with V-shaped notches that, when matched with a thread of a bolt or nut, indicates the number of threads per inch or millimeter, as well as the thread pitch. |
| scroll
| 1. To view consecutive lines of data on the display screen. The term scroll means that once the screen is full, each new line appears at the bottom edge of the screen and all other lines move one position. 2. A spiral, rolled or convoluted form |
| SCRS
| An acronym for the Society of Collision Repair Specialists. |
| scrub
| A term used for tire scrub. |
| scrub radius area
| A term used for scrub radius. |
| SCS
| Spark control system or suction control solenoid or spark control switch |
| SCSV
| Swirl control solenoid valve |
| scuff
| A surface that has been roughened by scraping. |
| scuff in
| To run a new set of racing tires long enough to bring them up to temperature, and wear the manufacturer's protective coating off the tread area. Also known as scuff off. |
| scuff off
| A term used for scuff in. |
| scuffing
| A type of wear between two parts where there is a transfer of material from one part to the other. |
| scuffs
| New racing tires that have been scuffed in. |
| SCV
| Spark control vacuum or swirl control valve |
| SCV-A
| Swirl control valve-actuator |
| SD
| The designation for a lubricating oil developed for use in 1968-1971 cars and some trucks. |
| SDM
| Supplemental restraint system diagnostic module |
| SDU
| Supplemental restraint system diagnostic unit |
| SDV
| An acronym for spark delay valve. |
| SDVR
| Spark delay vacuum regulator |
| Se
| [1] Selenium An element with the atomic number of 34 [2] The designation for a lubericating oil that meets the requirements for use in gasoline engines in 1972 and later cars and inselected 1971 cars and trucks |
| Se-Energized
| Having the electric current or energy source turned off |
| sea gull
| One at a drag race that complains or squawks all the time. |
| seal
| 1. A device used around a rotating shaft to prevent fluid or vapor leaks. 2. A gasket-like material used between two or more parts to prevent fluid or vapor leaks. |
| seal weld
| A weld designed primarily to provide a specific degree of tightness against leakage. |
| sealed battery
| A term used for maintenance-free battery. |
| sealed beam headlight
| A self-contained glass unit made up of a filament, an inner reflector, and an outer glass lens. |
| sealed bearing
| A replaceable bearing, such as those found on many rear axle shafts or at the front of alternator rotor shafts, that is lubricated and permanently sealed by the manufacturer to contain the grease while keeping out contaminants. |
| sealed fuel pump
| A permanently sealed, non-serviceable pump that has its body and cover crimped together. |
| sealer
| A thick, tacky compound used as a gasket or to seal small openings or irregularities between two mating parts. |
| seamless
| Steel tubing with absolutely no seam where a leak may occur and no restrictions internally to cause fluid flow to be restricted. |
| seasoned part
| A part that has been stress relieved. |
| seat
| 1. The surface on which another part rests. 2. To wear to a good fit. 3. The bench-like unite one sits on in a vehicle. |
| seat adjuster
| A device that permits fore and aft and/or up and down movement of a vehicle's front seat. |
| seat back
| The upright portion of a vehicle seat. |
| seat belt warning system
| A warning device to alert the driver and occupants to fasten their seat belts and/or shoulder harness. |
| seat of the pants (SOP)
| Driving by sheer instinct where instruments cannot be used to determine speed or distance. |
| second gear
| The intermediate or kickdown passing-gear range of a transmission. |
| Secondary Winding
| The winding of the ignition coil which supplies the hightension current to the spark plug |
| secondary air
| Air that is pumped to the pollution-control devices to promote chemical reactions that reduce exhaust gas pollutants. |
| Secondary Air Injection
| An emissions system designed to pump fresh air into the exhaust stream to reduce HH and CO emissions |
| secondary available voltage
| High voltage that is available to fire the spark plug. |
| secondary brake shoe
| The rear brake shoe in a drum-brake set that is energized by the primary shoe and increases self-energizing action of the brakes. |
| secondary circuit
| 1. The electrical circuit on the output side of an ignition coil. 2. That portion of a welding machine that conducts the secondary current between the welding transformer terminals and the electrodes, or electrode and workpiece. 3. The secondary passage in a carburetor. |
| secondary lock
| A component of a fifth wheel locking mechanism that can be included as a backup system for the primary locks. The secondary lock is not required for the fifth wheel to function and can be either manually or automatically applied. On some designs, the engagement of the secondary lock can only be accomplished if the primary lock is properly engaged. |
| secondary pickup
| An accessory that can be clamped on the high-voltage coil wire used to measure secondary ignition patterns. |
| secondary shoe
| The brake shoe located toward the rear of the vehicle, in a dual-servo drum brake, having a longer and thicker lining, and providing most of the braking force during forward stops. |
| section height
| The straight-distance measurement of a tire from the rim to the tread. |
| section modulus
| A measure of the strength of the vehicle frame side rails. |
| section repair
| A body repair that is accomplished using a section of another identical vehicle. |
| section width
| The straight distance from one sidewall of a tire to the other sidewall. |
| sectioned
| A vehicle body that has been lowered by removing a horizontal section of metal all the way around the vehicle. |
| sector
| A component that is not a complete circle, such as the gear on the pitman shaft of many steering systems. |
| sector gear
| A gear that converts the rotary motion of the worm in a recirculating ball or worm and sector steering gear to the straight line motion of the pitman arm. |
| sector shaft
| A shaft on which the sector gear is mounted. |
| sedan
| A two- or four-door vehicle with front and back seats that can accommodate four to six persons. |
| sedan de ville
| A sedan with an open cockpit and enclosed passenger compartment, intended to be chauffeur driven. |
| sediment chamber
| A space below the cell plates of some batteries to permit the accumulation of sediment deposits flaking from the battery plates. |
| SEFI
| Sequential electronic fuel injection |
| segments
| 1. A portion of a larger figure cut off by one or more lines of a plane. 2. The copper (Cu) bars of a commutator. |
| seize
| Two moving parts that suddenly bind together, usually due to lack of lubricant. Also known as freeze-up. |
| seizing
| The stiffening or "freezing" of a chain joint or shaft as a result of roughness and high friction caused by galling or lack of lubrication. |
| select low
| The program used by the microprocessor to determine which wheel is beginning to lock up. |
| self test
| A computer function that scans systems and subsystems to provide data for troubleshooting. |
| self-adjuster
| A mechanism on a drum brake that compensates for shoe-lining wear and keeps the shoe adjusted close to the drum. |
| self-adjusting clutch
| A mechanism that automatically takes up the slack between the pressure plate and clutch disc. |
| self-diagnostics
| In automotive computers, especially those for engine control, a program which assesses the condition of the system, including the sensors and the computer itself, and communicates its findings to the technician by means of trouble codes. |
| self-discharge
| The discharging of a battery due to chemical action, although there is no electrical demand. |
| self-energizing
| The placing of brake shoes so that the drum tends to drag the lining around with it, resulting in a wedging action between anchor and drum. |
| self-induction
| The induction of a voltage in a current-carrying coil of wire, such as an ignition coil. |
| self-locking screw
| A screw configured do that it locks itself in place when tightened. |
| self-sealing tire
| A tire having a special compound on the inner surface that seals punctures when the puncturing object is removed. |
| self-tapping screw
| 1. A screw that cuts its own threads without pre-drilling in sheet metal. 2. A screw that cuts its own threads in a predrilled hole in heavy-gauge metal. |
| Self-Test
| A part of the Ford functional Quick Test diagnostic procedure |
| SEMA
| An acronym for Specialty Equipment Market Association. |
| semi
| Short for semi-tractor or semitrailer. |
| semi-independent rear suspension
| A rear-suspension system in which one rear wheel has a limited amount of movement without affecting the opposite rear wheel. |
| semi-tractor
| A large truck having a fifth wheel used to tow a semitrailer. |
| semiautomatic welding
| Manual welding with equipment that automatically controls one or more of the welding conditions. |
| semicentrifugal clutch
| A clutch having weighted components in the pressure plate, such as rollers or release levers, that apply additional force against the pressure plate to hold the disc tighter during high engine rpm. |
| semiconductor
| A solid material, usually germanium (Ge) or silicon (Si), that integrated circuits are made of, with an electrical conductivity between the high conductivity of metals and the low conductivity of insulators used to control the flow of electricity, containing 4 electrons in its valance shell a semiconductor is nether an insulator nor a conductor |
| semiconductor ignition system
| A term used for electronic-ignition system. |
| semielliptical
| Refers to the amount that the ends are higher than the center arch of a leaf-spring configuration. |
| semielliptical spring
| 1. A leaf spring. 2. A set of leaf springs of regressive lengths stacked with the longest at the top to the shortest at the bottom. |
| semifloating axle
| A popular automotive system in which the axle shaft provides three functions: transfers torque to drive the vehicle, supports the car weight, and retains the wheel. |
| semifloating rear axle
| An axle that supports the weight of the vehicle on the axle shaft and transmits the driving force to the rear wheels. |
| semiknocked down (SKD)
| A vehicle that is sold in a partially assembled condition. |
| semimetallic brake lining
| A brake lining that is made of an organic resin to bond steel fibers. |
| semioscillating
| A fifth-wheel-type vehicle that oscillates or articulates about an axis perpendicular to the vehicle centerline. |
| semitrailer
| A load-carrying vehicle equipped with one or more axles and constructed so that its front end is attached to, and supported by the fifth wheel of a semi-tractor that pulls it. |
| sending unit
| An electrical or mechanical sensing device that sends information relative to some physical property such as temperature or pressure to a gauge or light. Also known as sensor unit. |
| sensible heat
| Heat that causes a change in the temperature of a substance, but does not change the state of the substance that can be felt or measured with a thermometer. |
| sensing voltage
| A condition that provides a means for the voltage regulator to monitor and control the battery voltage charge rate. |
| sensor
| A device that converts physical quantities such as pressure, airflow, temperature and velocity into electrical signals. |
| sensor plate
| A plate used in the air intake of a continuous-flow, fuel-injection system to measure airflow. |
| sensor unit
| A term used for sending unit. |
| separator
| 1. A tank-like device used to remove liquids from a vapor, such as oil from refrigerant. 2. A nonconductive divider placed between the positive and negative plates of a battery. |
| separator disc
| The metal plates in the multi-plate clutch that separates the friction discs. |
| Separator Pulse
| A pulse code consisting of a signal half-second pulse between the last service code and the first continusus code of a data stream |
| sequential fuel injection
| A term used for sequential-port fuel injection. |
| Sequential Injection
| A fuel injection system where the injectors fire from individual drivers, in the same sequence as the engines firing order |
| Sequential Logic Cercuits
| A flip-flop circuit in which the output is determined by the sequence of inputs. A given input affects the output produced by the next input |
| sequential-port fuel injection (SPFI)
| A type of multi-port injection system where individual fuel injectors are pulsed sequentially, one after another in the same firing order as the spark plugs, rather than being pulsed simultaneously. This allows more precise fuel control for lower emissions and better performance. Also known as sequential fuel injection. |
| Sequentially Fired
| A type of fuel-delivery system in which the fuel injectors are fired individually according to ignition firing order and valve timing. |
| Serial Data
| The pulse train data signal sent on the communication line between the computer and the scantool. |
| series circuit
| A circuit having only one path through which the current or fluid can flow, having to pass through one component before going on to another. |
| series number
| A term used for tire aspect ratio. |
| series parallel circuit
| A circuit in which some components are in series while others are in parallel. |
| series parallel system
| An arrangement where two 12-volt batteries are connected in such a manner as to provide 24-volts for starting and 12-volts for accessories and charging. |
| series wound
| In a starter motor, the field coils (windings) and the armature, are wired in series. All current flows through the field coils, through the hot brushes, through the armature, then to the ground through the ground brushes. |
| serpentine belt
| A wide, flat belt having multi-V-grooves to provide friction contact with the pulleys that winds through all of the engine accessories to drive them off the crankshaft pulley. |
| serrated nut
| A self-locking type of nut having serrations on its contact side to prevent it from loosening when tightened. |
| serrated rod cap
| A connecting rod cap that has serrated parting edges to help maintain alignment with the rod. |
| service assess gauge-port valve
| Fittings found on some service valves and some control devices used to access the system for testing and service. |
| Service Bay Diagnosis System
| SBDS A computerized information network system that is connected, often by satellite, to the vehicle manufacturer and used to answer service and diagnostic questions. |
| service bulletin
| Technical service information provided by the manufacturer, used as updates for the service manuals and to provide the latest service tips, field repairs, product information, and other related information for the service technician. |
| Service Engine Light
| Light used to inform the driver of a malfunction in the computer control system |
| service hose
| A hose that attaches a test gauge set to the service fitting of a system. |
| service manager
| The person who is generally responsible for the entire service operation of a dealership. |
| service manual
| A manual provided by the manufacturer or other publisher that describes service procedures, troubleshooting and diagnosis, and specifications for a particular car line. |
| service port
| An access fitting found on the service valve and some control devices that the gauge set hoses are connected to for service and testing. |
| service procedures
| A recommended step-by-step procedure to follow to troubleshoot, disassemble, assemble, or repair an automotive system or component. |
| service rating
| 1. A designation that indicates the type engine an oil is suited for. 2. The temperature and/or load rating of a tire. |
| service representative
| A manufacturer's agent who works in the local area to provide direct and immediate service to the dealership relative to customer service. |
| Service Station Dealers of America (SSDA)
| A national federation of service station owners. |
| service technician
| One actively involved in troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of the vehicle. |
| service valves
| Special manually operated or Schrader-type valves that allow connecting gauge hoses to a pressurized system during servicing procedures. |
| service writer
| One who writes work orders. |
| servo
| 1. A device that converts hydraulic pressure to mechanical movement, such as a brake-wheel cylinder. 2. A vacuum operated unit that attaches to the throttle linkage to move the throttle on a cruse control system. |
| servo action
| A method of brake construction in which a primary shoe pushes a secondary shoe to generate self-energization. |
| servo brake
| A drum brake in which brake shoes are linked, so that the braking force of one shoe amplifies the input of the other shoe. |
| SES
| Service engine soon |
| set screw
| A type of screw having a point that fits into the matching recess of a shaft to secure a pulley or gear. |
| setback
| A difference in wheelbase from one side of a vehicle to the other. |
| setup
| The engine transmission/drivetrain and chassis combination that offers improved performance. |
| severe ring
| A piston ring that exerts a high amount of pressure against the cylinder wall, often used in an engine with sever cylinder-wall wear. |
| Sevomotor
| An electrical motor that produces rotation of less than a full turn |
| sewing machine
| A small, foreign car. |
| SFE
| Society of Fuse Engineers |
| SFI
| [1] Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection |
| shackle
| A swinging support for the rear end of a spring that permits it to vary in length as it deflects. |
| shackle assembly
| This assembly is attached to the front spring eye and bushing an is then mounted through a shackle bushing to the frame allowing the leaf spring to pivot up and down. |
| shackle bushing
| Insulated bushings to help prevent the transfer of noise and road shock from the suspension to the chassis and vehicle interior. |
| shade-tree mechanic
| 1. An amateur mechanic. 2. A mechanic with little or no knowledge of the trade. 3. A rural mechanic that literally works under a shade tree. |
| shadow graph
| A scale using reflected light to indicate a difference in the weight of two parts. |
| shaft seal
| An assembly that prevents vapor or fluid from escaping around the a rotating shaft. |
| shaft-mounted rocker arms
| Rocker arms that are mounted in a straight row on a shaft. |
| shaker
| A hood scoop on some muscle cars that channels directly into the air cleaner. |
| shaky
| A Chevrolet among Ford enthusiasts. |
| shallow staging
| A term often used for back staging. |
| shaved
| 1. A vehicle body with the factory chrome trim removed and the holes filled in and painted. 2. A cylinder head that has been resurfaced. |
| shear pin
| A pin passing through two or more parts, as in securing a gear on a shaft, designed to break, preventing damage if an overload occurs. |
| shelf life
| The useful life of electrical components when not in use. |
| shell
| 1. Outer spark-plug casing having a threaded end and hexagonal flats for a wrench attachment. 2. Outer front and/or rear metal mainarea of the power-brake unit. 3. The sheet metal body structure of a vehicle. |
| shielding gas
| Protective gas used to prevent or reduce atmospheric contamination while welding. |
| shift forks
| A Y-shaped component located between the low/reverse, first/second, and third/fourth gears on the main shaft of a transmission that causes the gear to engage or disengage via the sliding clutches. |
| shift kit
| Parts required to provide high performance of an automatic transmission shifter. |
| shift lever
| 1. A lever used to change gears in a transmission. 2. A lever that moves the starter drive pinion in and out of mesh with the flywheel in some applications. |
| shift rail
| A series of grooves in the forks to guide the shift forks, tension balls, and springs to hold the shift forks in gear, allowing them to interlock the rails to prevent the transmission from being shifted into two gears at the same time. |
| shift tower
| The main interface between the drive transmission, a gearshift lever, pivot pin, spring, boot, and housing. |
| shift valve
| 1. A valve body component acted on by oil pressure, allowing fluid flow to the involved band and/or clutch at the appropriate time, causing the transmission to up shift or downshift. 2. A type of hydraulic valve, consisting of lands and valleys that resembles a spool for thread. The lands seal orifices and the valleys open them. |
| shift yoke
| A term used for shift fork. |
| shift-bar housing
| A component that houses shift rails, shift yokes, detent balls and springs, interlock balls, and pin and neutral shaft; available in standard- and forward-position configurations. |
| shifter
| A floor- or steering column-mounted lever on a motor vehicle used to select and/or shift the transmission gears. |
| shifting forks
| A term used for shift forks. Also known as shift yoke. |
| shifting rods
| The linkage of a manual transmission that connects the shifter to the shift forks. |
| Shillelagh
| A hot Chevrolet V-8 engine. |
| shim
| 1. A thin metal spacer used to align the clearance of a part. 2. A slotted strip of metal used to adjust the front-end alignment on many vehicles. |
| shim stock
| Thin metal, usually in a roll, that can be easily cut to be used as a shim. |
| shimmy
| A harsh, side-to-side vibration of the steering wheel usually due to front wheel imbalance. |
| SHO
| Super high output |
| shock
| A term used for shock absorber. |
| shock absorber
| A hydraulic device used at each wheel of the suspension system to help control the up, down, and rolling motion of a car body by dampening the oscillations or jounce of the springs when the car goes over bumps, thereby contributing to vehicle safety and passenger comfort. Also referred to as shock. |
| shock compression
| The shock absorber in its shortened position, which occurs when the wheel moves upward. |
| shock fluid
| Specially formulated hydraulic fluid used inside of shock absorbers. |
| shock foaming
| The mixing of air and shock fluid, due to rapid movement of fluid between the chambers, causing the shock absorber to develop a lag because of piston is moving through an air pocket that offers up resistance. A gas-filled shock absorber is designed to reduce oil foaming. |
| shock hydraulic principles
| Fluid is forced through orifices and/or valves at a controlled rate to provide the desired dampening effect. |
| shock mounting position
| The direction and/or angle at which a shock absorber is mounted: vertical, horizontal, or slanted inward at the top. |
| shock mounts
| The rubber isolating bushing or grommets attached to the upper shock-mounting piston rod and the lower mounting cylinder tube in which the piston operates. |
| shock operational check
| A method used to check shock efficiency that includes bouncing the vehicle bumper vigorously and observing the shock dampening action, or pumping the brakes slowly at low speed to see if the vehicle "rocking" motion is set up. |
| shock piston
| The component attached tot he bottom of the piston rod containing the rebound valve that moves back and forth inside the inner cylinder. |
| shock rebound
| The rebound travel when the shock absorber is in its lengthened position, which occurs when the suspension or spring moves downward. |
| shock-absorber function
| A typical shock absorber has three functions: to dampen the effect of spring oscillation in order to control the ride stabilization of a vehicle, to control body sway, and to reduce the tendency of a tire tread to lift off the road surface (a problem often caused by static unbalance). |
| shock-absorber lag
| The incorrect operation of a shock absorber because of aeration due to the mixing of air with oils, causing the shock absorber to produce a poor ride. |
| shock-absorber ratio
| A rating of shock-absorber extension control compared to the amount of compression control, varying from 50/50 to 80/20. |
| shock-absorber strut assembly
| In a MacPherson strut, the independent rear-suspension system that includes a rubber isolated top mount, upper and lower spring seal, coil spring insulator, and coil spring. |
| shoe
| The lining and its steel backing on a drum brake that press against the inside of the brake drum to provide stopping power. |
| shoe anchor
| The large pin, or post, or block against which a drum brake shoe pivots or develops leverage. |
| shoe box
| Any car manufactured in the U.S. having a non-aerodynamic, box-like shape built from the late 1940's through the 1950's. |
| shoe hold-down spring
| A coiled compression spring that applies pressure to hold the brake shoes against the backing plate. |
| shoe retracting spring
| A coiled tension spring that pulls the shoes away from the brake drum after the pedal is released, forcing the brake fluid back into the master cylinder. |
| shoot
| To spray paint, as in painting a vehicle. |
| shop housekeeping
| A term used for housekeeping. |
| short and long A-arms
| A double A-arm suspension where one arm is smaller than the other. |
| short arm
| The throw of a crankshaft that has not been stroked. |
| short arm, long arm suspension
| A conventional front-suspension system that uses a short upper-control arm and a long lower-control arm. |
| short bed
| The cargo area of a short-wheelbase pickup truck, usually about six feet (1.83 meters) long. |
| short block
| A new or rebuilt engine block with all internal parts. |
| short circuit
| The intentional or unintentional grounding of an electrical circuit. |
| short course
| To take a shortcut that bypasses a part of the official course of an off-road racing event. |
| Short Course Off-Road Enterprises (SCORE)
| More commonly known as SCORE International, an organization involved in long-distance desert competition events. |
| short cycling
| 1. A rapid cycling of the clutch resulting in poor cooling condition of the air conditioner that can be caused by poor refrigerant and/or air circulation or a maladjusted thermostat. 2. An electrical condition where the device goes on and off as cycled by a circuit breaker due to a malfunction. |
| short deck engine
| An engine block designed to accommodate a short-stroke crankshaft. |
| short gear
| A final drive with low gearing. |
| short side radius
| The small radius in a port between the bottom of the port runner of the intake manifold and the bowl area. |
| short term adaptive's
| See short term fuel trim. |
| short term fuel trim
| The short term compensation made by the engine controller to vary injector pulse width by a percentage to maintain minimal emissions output. |
| short ton
| A standard English weight equal to 2,000 pounds. |
| short track
| An oval race track that is less than one kilometer (5/8 mile). |
| shorted circuit
| A circuit that allows current to bypass part of the normal path. |
| shot
| Pellets used with air pressure to clean parts. |
| shot bag
| A leather bag filled with #9 birdshot used by metal workers to help shape and form metal panels. |
| shot peen
| To harden the surface of a metal part by bombarding it with metal shot using high air pressure. |
| shot rodder
| One who is discredit to the sport of hot rodding. |
| shotgun motor
| A rare Ford big block 429 cid Hemi, offered in 1969 and 1970. |
| show 'n' shine
| To display a hod rod or custom car in a car show. |
| show car
| A custom-built car for show and not for driving, though derivable. |
| show through
| The appearance of a sanding pattern after the vehicle has been painted.. |
| showroom stock
| A factory-stock vehicle with minor modifications and safety equipment under SCCA rules. |
| shrink
| To reduce an area of a piece of metal by heating and hammering it. |
| shrink fit
| A tight or snug fit accomplished by shrinking a part. |
| shrink wrap
| A shrink-fit tubing used to protect wires, wire splices, and terminals of an automotive electrical system. |
| shrink-fit tubing
| An insulated tubing that shrinks to about half its original diameter when heated. |
| shrinking hammer
| A special hammer that is used to shrink spots that have been stretched by excessive hammering. |
| shroud
| 1. A metal or plastic duct that directs ambient air to the radiator cooling fan. 2. A hood-like device placed around an engine fan to improve air flow. |
| shrouding
| An obstruction, such as carbon buildup, around a valve in the combustion chamber that interferes with the proper air flow. |
| shunt
| 1. A British term for vehicle accident. 2. To bump or shove another car in an oval track or road race. 3. A parallel electrical connection or circuit. |
| shunt winding
| Bypass winding found on some alternators. |
| shut down
| 1. To defeat a competitor. 2. To stop an engine. |
| shut down valve
| A valve which is used to shut down an engine by interrupting the fuel supply; a safety requirement for many competitive vehicles. |
| shut off
| To slow a vehicle by releasing the accelerator or throttle. |
| shut off area
| An area beyond the measured distance of competition where the vehicle may be safely brought to a stop. |
| shut the gate
| 1. To pass a competitor in closed-course racing then immediately cut in front. 2. To prevent an opponent from passing on the inside of a turn by blocking the apex. |
| Si
| [1] Silicon An element with the atomic number of 14 [2] An acronym for spark ignition [3] Anacronym for systems Internationale des Unites a sicentific unit of measurement |
| siamese
| 1. To exhaust pipes joined together. 2. Cylinders in an engine block that are cast co closed together theat there is no room for a coolant passage between them. 3. Two adjacent valves in a cylinder head that is served by a single port. |
| siamese ports
| Intake or exhaust ports inside the cylinder head where two cylinders are feeding through one port. |
| side bolt mains
| Side-mounted main bearing bolts that increase the rigidity of the lower end. |
| side clearance
| The clearance between the cheeks of the crankshaft journal and the connecting rod. |
| side gears
| Bevel gears that transfer power from the differential pinion gears to the splined axle shafts, providing differential action during turns. |
| side guard door beam
| The structural member of a vehicle door that prevents it from being pushed inward if struck. |
| side lead
| The effects of centrifugal force as a vehicle rounds a turn. |
| side marker light
| Lamps installed in all vehicles sold in United States since 1969 that permit the vehicle to be seen when entering a roadway from the side and to provide a means for other drivers to determine vehicle length (clearance). |
| side molding
| The trim on the sides of a vehicle that offer protection or to improve the appearance. |
| side oiler
| A Ford big block V-8 having a main oil gallery relocated on the low left side of the block. |
| side shift
| A steering-column mounted transmission gear-shift lever. |
| side step
| The act of slipping one's foot on the clutch pedal suddenly while reffing the engine in drag racing. |
| side valve
| An engine having intake and exhaust valves in the block beside the cylinders. |
| side-dash components
| The installation of heating and air-conditioning components that have the evaporator mounted on the curb side of the firewall in the engine compartment and the heater core in the duct in the passenger compartment. |
| side-draft carburetor
| A carburetor having one or more horizontal barrels. |
| side-mount battery
| A battery having terminals on the side. |
| sidewall
| The side of a tire between the bead and the tread. |
| sidewall information
| Certain information required by the Department of Transportation to be imprinted on each tire, such as size, load rating/inflation pressure maximums, generic name of each cord material in the sidewalls and tread areas, actual number of plies in the sidewall and tread area, the words tubeless or tube type, as applicable, the word radial, if applicable, and the manufacturing code to determine who the tire, where it was made, and when it was made. |
| sidewinder
| A vehicle having an engine that is mounted transversely. |
| sight glass
| A glass window in the liquid line or top of the receiver-drier used to observe the liquid refrigerant flow in an air conditioning system. |
| SIGMA
| An acronym for Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America. |
| signal
| In electronics, the information contained in electrical quantities of voltage or current that forms the input, timing, or output of a device, circuit, or system. |
| signal generator
| A test instrument for generating standard signals, used to analyze circuit performance. |
| Signal integrity
| The accurate reconstruction of a signal, determined by the systems and performance considerations of an oscilloscope, in addition to the probe used to acquire the signal |
| Signal Source
| A test device used to inject a signal into a circuir input, The circuit output is then read by an oscilloscope. |
| Signature Voltage Signal
| A waveform characteristic that makes it possible to distinguish from other,similar waveforms. Caused by the circuits unique configurations or ware patterns |
| Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP)
| A rule established in 1994, under Section 612 of the 1990 Clean Air Act (CAA) to initiate a program in which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to evaluate applications for use of substitute chemical and technology designated to replace ozone depleters in specific uses, including flammability, chemical toxicity, global-warming potential, exposure of workers, consumers, the general public, and aquatic life. |
| SIL
| Shift indicator light |
| silencer
| A device, such as a muffler, designed to reduce noise. |
| silent block
| A rubber mound designed to reduce noise due to vibration. |
| silhouette car
| A modern, front-drive 4- or 6-cylinder car that has been converted to a rear-drive V-8 car. |
| silica gel
| A drying agent used in many automotive applications, such as an air-conditioner desiccant because of its ability to absorb large quantities of water. |
| silicon
| A element with the atomic number of # 14 [2] one of the elements known as semiconductors that have exactly 4 electrons in there valance shell used to creat semiconductor devices. |
| silicon-killed steel
| A steel alloy that has been killed with silicon in the molten stage to refine its grain structure. |
| silicone
| A group of organic compounds based on the non-metallic element, silicon (Si). |
| silicone controlled rectifier (SCR)
| A semiconductor diode device used in controlling large amounts of DC current or voltage. |
| silicone fluid
| Fluid made of chemicals with a silicone carbon bond; adaptable for many industrial uses. |
| silicone jackets
| High-temperature coverings for spark plugs. |
| silver solder
| A filler alloy that contains up to 45% silver (Sn), that melts at 1,120?F (604?C) and flows at 1,145?F (619?C). |
| silver tape
| A term used for duct tape. |
| Silverline
| A tool manufacturer producing the most popular Mity-Vac vacuum tool. |
| similar window
| Pertaining to engine operation in which RPM and load are within predetermined percentages, Conditions in which certain monitors must pass to extinguish the MIL and erase DTC"s |
| simple planetary gear set
| Gear set with a sun gear, planetary pinions, planetary carrier, and ring gear. |
| Simpson gear set
| A gear set having two simple planetary gears mounted on a common sun gear. |
| Simultaneously Fired
| A type of fuel delivery system in which the fuel injectors are fired in groups once per engine revolution. |
| Sine wave
| A common curved wave shape that is mathematically defined |
| single chamber capacity
| The measure of the maximum volume or displacement of the rotor chamber of a Wankel engine. |
| single leaf spring
| A spring having one leaf that may be tapered thinner and wider toward the ends, allowing a variable flexing rate. |
| single overhead camshaft (SOHC)
| An engine having one overhead camshaft. |
| single overhead camshaft engine
| An engine having a single camshaft mounted over each cylinder head. |
| single pass
| A term applicable to a refrigerant recovery unit that removes refrigerant from the air conditioner and passes it through only one time on its way to the recovery cylinder. |
| single rear wheels (SRW)
| Single wheels on either side of the drive axle of a rear-drive vehicle. |
| single reduction axle
| An axle assembly that has but one gear reduction through its differential carrier assembly. |
| Single Shot
| A single measured by an oscilloscope that only occurs once |
| Single Sweep
| A trigger mode to display one triggered screen of a signal and then stop. |
| single wrap
| A transmission brake with a circular steel strap that is lined internally with friction material. |
| single-board engine controller (SBEC)
| A single microprocessor used to control engine functions. |
| single-pivot control arm
| A term used for control arm. |
| single-plane crankshaft
| A crankshaft having throws on the opposite side of the same plane, at 180 degrees. |
| single-plane manifold
| An intake manifold having a single plenum between the carburetor and intake ports. |
| single-wire circuit
| A circuit using a single wire that relies n the metal structures of the vehicle, such as the frame or body, as a ground. |
| sintered
| A somewhat porous metallic bearing formed by pressing particles of powdered metal to a temperature at which the adhere to each other. |
| sintered brake lining
| A term used for metallic brake lining. |
| Sinusoidal
| Refers to the even waveform of an alternating current. |
| SIP
| State Implementation Plan |
| SIR
| Supplemental inflatable restraints |
| six holer
| A six-cylinder engine. |
| six pack
| A carburetor setup having a total of six barrels. |
| six-stroke cycle
| The stroke cycle of an experimental engine by Toyota where combustion occurs every third revolution of the crankshaft. |
| sixty foot time
| The time it takes to cover the first sixty feet (18.3 meters) from the starting line in a drag race. |
| SK steel
| A shortened term for silicon-killed steel. |
| SKD
| An acronym for semiknocked down. |
| skid control
| A device that prevents wheel lockup during braking, to prevent skidding. |
| skid control system
| A system designed to respond to a locking wheel by relieving hydraulic pressure to the locking brake. |
| skid pad
| A flat area of pavement with a painted circle 300 feet (91 meters) in diameter used to determine a vehicle's lateral grip and lateral acceleration. |
| skid plate
| A shield under the power train of an off-road vehicle to protect the engine and transmission. |
| skin
| 1. The surface hardening of RTV or some body fillers. 2. The outer sheet metal of a vehicle. |
| skin effect
| 1. The tendency of current to crowd toward the outer surface of a conductor; increases with conductor diameter and frequency. 2. A thin, unburned layer of air/fuel mixture next to the combustion camber surface. |
| skinnies
| Narrow front wheels and tires. |
| skinning
| The removal of insulation from electrical conductors before making splices or connections. |
| skins
| Tires. |
| skirt
| A term used for piston skirt. |
| SKS
| Spark knock sensor |
| skull
| The unmelted residue from the filler metal when welding. |
| skunk works
| A small, secretive group within the research and development department of a large organization that focuses on more advanced research and development. |
| slalom
| A contest of speed and maneuverability through a tight course marked off with pylons. |
| slam the door
| 1. Beating another vehicle in competition. 2. Preventing a competitive vehicle from passing. |
| slant six
| A six-cylinder engine design offered on some Chrysler car lines in the 1960's and 1970's. |
| Slave Cylinder
| [1] A device in the hydraulic clutch system which in activated by hydraulic force disengaging the clutch [2] In the brake system it is a device for transfuring hydralic energy from the master cylinder to the brake pads or shoes |
| slave valve
| An air-pressure operated device that helps to protect gears and components in the transmission's auxiliary section by permitting range shifts to occur only when the transmission's main gearbox is in neutral. |
| sled runner
| The taper of the skirt of a piston to compensate for heat expansion. |
| sleeper
| A vehicle that looks ordinary but is actually a high performer. |
| sleeve
| A term used for cylinder sleeve. |
| sleeve bearing
| A plain bearing. |
| slick
| A smooth, treadless racing tire. |
| slide hammer
| A metal rod with a tool at one end, and a heavy weight that slides on the rod to pull, or push, the tool. |
| slide travel
| The distance that a sliding fifth wheel is designed to move. |
| slider clutch
| A special clutch used in drag race cars that slips to allow the engine to rev up before engaging. |
| sliding caliper
| A disc-brake caliper that has a piston(s) on one side of the disc only that moves sideways on machined "ways" or keys to press the pad on the other side against the disc. |
| sliding fifth wheel
| A specialized fifth wheel design that incorporates provisions to readily relocate the kingpin center forward and rearward, which affects the weight distribution on the tractor axles and/or overall length of the tractor and trailer. |
| sling
| A loop of rope, cable, or chain used in hoisting heavy material. |
| slinger
| A metal disc attached to the crankshaft to keep engine oil away from the front seal. |
| slip angle
| The difference in the path the wheels follow during a turn compared to the actual direction they are pointing, caused by centrifugal force at higher speeds. |
| slip joint
| A term used for lip yoke. |
| slip rings
| The electrical contact area for the brushes in an alternator. |
| slip stream
| A partial vacuum that is created behind a vehicle traveling at a high speed. |
| slip yoke
| A component having internal splines that slide on the transmission output-shaft external splines, allowing the drive line to adjust for variations in length as the rear axle assembly moves. |
| slip-in
| A part that fits without modification or adjustment. |
| slipout
| A condition that occurs with a tractor-trailer when pulling with full power or decelerating with the load; tapered or worn clutch teeth tend to "walk" as they rotate, causing the sliding gear and clutch to slip out of engagement. |
| slipper skirt
| A term used for slipper skirt piston. |
| slipper skirt piston
| A piston that has a cutaway skirt so that the piston can come closer to the counterweights reducing the overall size of the engine. Also known as slipper skirt. |
| slippery
| A streamlined, aerodynamically efficient vehicle. |
| slope
| The numerical ratio or proportion of rear drum brake pressure to full system pressure that is applied through a proportioning valve. |
| sloper
| A fastback body type. |
| slow reverse
| A simple planetary gear combination with sun gear as input, planetary carrier held, and ring gear as output. |
| sludge
| 1. A muddy-appearing deposit formed by contamination and chemical action on liquids; can clog openings and/or passages 2. A buildup of combustion by-products that can clog oil lines and interfere with proper lubrications. |
| slug
| A piston. |
| slugging
| 1. The return of liquid refrigerant or oil to the compressor. 2. The act of adding a separate piece (s) of material in a joint before or during welding that results in a welding joint not complying with design, drawing or specification requirements. |
| slush pump
| An automatic transmission. |
| Sm
| Samarium An element with the atomic number of 62 |
| small block (SB)
| A V-8 engine of 400 cid (6.5 liters) or less. |
| smart card
| A small electronic device about the size of a credit card that contains electronic memory |
| SMEC
| Single module engine controller: This computer system was introduced by Chrysler in mid 1987 |
| smog
| Air pollution, especially the photochemical variety formed when sunlight causes a chemical reaction between NOx and HC, resulting in the formation of ozone and other compounds smog is a conjunction of smoke and fog. |
| smog check
| To measure the emissions level of a vehicle's exhaust gases. |
| smog motor
| A vehicle engine with exhaust emissions controls. |
| smog pump
| An air-injection system pump. |
| smog test
| A term used for smog check. |
| smoke
| 1. To defeat a racing competitor. 2. The color of the vapor coming out of the vehicle's exhaust system. |
| smoke in exhaust
| A visible blue or black substance often present in the vehicles exhaust. |
| smoke it over
| To discuss, analyze, and give careful consideration to a concept, idea, or problem. |
| smoke off
| To leave the staring line in a drag race with the rear wheels smoking. |
| smoker
| A vehicle that has an engine that smokes excessively. |
| smoking rules
| Rules concerning smoking, such as, NO SMOKING or SMOKING ONLY IN DESIGNATED SMOKING AREAS. Fumes in the shop may be ignited if these rules are not followed. |
| smoothed
| A body panel with trim removed and the holes filled. |
| Sn
| Tin An element with the atomic number of 50 |
| SNAP
| An acronym for Significant New Alternatives Policy. |
| snap ring
| A circular retaining clip used inside or outside a shaft or part to secure a shaft, such as a floating wrist pin. |
| Snap-On
| A tool manufacturer |
| snapshot
| A feature of OBD-II that shows, on various scanners, the conditions that the vehicle was operating under when a particular trouble code was set. |
| Snell Foundation
| An organization that sets safety standards for racing helmets that are adhered to by most race-sanctioning bodies. |
| sniffer
| An exhaust-gas analyzer used in making a smog check. |
| snipe
| A pipe that is placed on a wrench to increase leverage; generally an unsafe practice. |
| snorkel tube
| A long, narrow tube attached to the air cleaner, used to direct air into the air filter. |
| snotty
| A slippery surface. |
| snow-and-mud tire
| A tire, identified with an "MS" suffix, having treads designed to provide traction when driving in mud or snow; available in various ply and belt designs. |
| SO2
| Sulphur dioxide |
| Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE)
| A professional organization established in 1905 and now known as the Society of Automotive Engineers. |
| Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
| A professional organization of the automotive industry founded in 1905, the SAE is dedicated to providing technical information and standards to the automotive industry. |
| Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS)
| A trade association of those involved in the collision-repair industry. |
| Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America (SIGMA)
| A trade association of wholesale and retail private-brand gasoline marketers. |
| sodium bicarbonate
| Baking soda (NaHCO) used to neutralize battery acid. |
| sodium hydroxide
| A caustic soda (NaOH) that makes a good parts cleaner when mixed with water. |
| sodium silicate
| A white, grey, or colorless compound sometimes used to seal small cracks or leaks in the cooling system. |
| sodium-cooled valve
| A partially hollow valve containing metallic sodium that melts at a low temperature (208?F) 97.8?C and when in its liquid state at operating temperatures splashes around inside the valve, transferring heat away from the valve head. |
| soft plug
| A term used for core plug. |
| soft solder 95/5
| A lead-free metallic alloy of 95% tin (Sn) and 5% antimony (Sb); used to repair or join ferrous metal parts for temperatures below 350?F (176?C). |
| soft top
| 1. A convertible top. 2. A vehicle having a convertible top. |
| software
| 1. Computer instructions or data. Anything that can be stored electronically is software. 2. The various programs stored in the RAM , ROM, and PROM memories that serves as instructions for the microprocessor |
| SOHC
| An acronym for single overhead camshaft. |
| solar cell
| A semiconductor that converts sunlight to electrical energy. |
| solar power
| Electricity that is generated by solar cells. |
| solder
| A filler metal used in joining two or more parts that has a liquidus state not exceeding 840?F (450?C). |
| soldering
| A welding process that produces consolidation of materials by heating them to the proper temperature and using a filler metal having a liquidus not exceeding 840?F (450?C) and below the solidus of the base metals. |
| solenoid
| 1. An elecrtomechanical device similar in operation to a relay, however, the movement of the armature or iron core results in changing electrical energy into mechanical energy. 2. An electro-mechanical device used to effect a push-pull mechanical operation using electrical current. 3. A rely with an external mechanical movement. |
| solenoid relay
| A relay that connects a solenoid to an electrical circuit, such as a starter-motor solenoid relay. |
| solenoid switch
| An electrical switch that is opened and closed mechanically by the movement of a solenoid core. |
| solenoid valve
| A mechanical valve that is operated by a solenoid to control the flow of a liquid or a gas. Used in braking systems, air conditioning systems, emission control systems, cruise control systems and even suspension and steering systems. |
| solid axle
| A term used for beam axle or rigid axle. |
| Solid Oxide
| 1. A solid combination of oxygen and zirconium that serves as an electrolyte for a fuel cell. |
| solid pushrod
| A pushrod made from solid stock. |
| solid rotor
| A rotor that is a solid piece of metal with a friction surface on each side. |
| solid state device
| Any device that can control current without moving parts, heated filaments, or vacuum gaps. Thus, all semiconductors are solid-state devices but some solid-state devices are not semiconductors ( for example, transformers) |
| solid state ignition
| An ignition system using diodes and transistors to control spark timing. |
| solid state regulator
| An alternator regulator having no moving parts. |
| solid valve lifter
| A term used for mechanical valve lifter. |
| solid wire
| A single stranded conductor, usually insulated. |
| solid-axle suspension
| Suspension system in which the wheels are mounted at each end of a solid, or undivided, axle or axle housing. |
| Solid-state device
| An electronic component constructed from any type of semiconductor material |
| solids
| 1. A type of paint pigment. 2. A solid or mechanical valve lifter. |
| solidus
| The highest temperature at which a metal or an alloy is completely solid. |
| solo
| 1. By oneself. 2. A run made by a single car during a drag-race elimination. |
| soluble
| A substance that will dissolve in a solvent. |
| solvent
| 1. A liquid substance, such as water, in which other substances can dissolve. 2. A petrochemical liquid that will dissolve oil and grease. 3. A paint cleaner and thinner. |
| sonic testing
| A procedure for testing the integrity of engine blocks, using sound waves. |
| SOP
| 1. An acronym for standard operating procedure. 2. An acronym for seat of the pants. |
| SOP rally
| A competitive event in which instruments cannot be used by the contestant to check time or distance. |
| sorbed
| A desiccant. |
| sorted out
| Corrected, such as a problem that has been corrected. |
| soup
| 1. A special racing-fuel mixture. 2. To increase the output of an engine. |
| source
| The device, circuit or system which supplies electrical energy to another device, circuit or system |
| source voltage
| Voltage measured at the source with the circuit in operation. |
| south pole
| The pole or end at which magnetic lines of force enter a magnet. |
| Southern California Timing Association (SCTA)
| A sanctioning body concerned with the annual Bonneville speed trials. |
| space frame
| A light-weight race car frame constructed of small-diameter metal tubing that is welded together in such a manner as to provide high rigidity. |
| space-saver spare tire
| 1. A deflated, compact spare tire that must be inflated to 35 psi (241 kPa) with a vehicle-battery powered air compressor or a can of compressed air. 2. An inflated spare tire which is smaller and narrower than those on the vehicle that is to be used in an emergency only. |
| space-saver tire
| A term used for space-saver spare tire. |
| spacer
| A device, such as a shim or washer, that is used to increase the space between to mating surfaces for parts. |
| Spacer Entry EGR System
| An EGR system where exhaust gases are routed directly from the dxhause manifold through a stainless steel tube to the carburetor base |
| span
| The width of an air foil. |
| spanner
| The British term for wrench. |
| spare
| 1. Not in regular use or immediately needed. 2. Extra or reserve. 3. A term used for spare tire. |
| spare tire
| A full-sized replacement tire or a compact space-saver tire, generally for emergency service, but available for use when needed. |
| spark advance
| The moving ahead of the ignition spark in relation to the piston position. |
| spark advance curve
| The rate at which ignition timing advances as plotted on a graph; the line rises from some initial amount of advance and levels off at the maximum advance. |
| Spark Amplitude
| The gratest voltage created during a spark event ( the hight of the firing line ) |
| spark decel valve
| A vacuum valve, located in the line between the distributor and carburetor, to advance the spark during deceleration, to reduce emissions. |
| spark delay valve (SDV)
| A vacuum valve acting like a restrictor, used in the vacuum line between the distributor and carburetor, to delay vacuum-timing advance under certain driving conditions to reduce NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions. |
| spark duration
| The time a spark is established across the gap of a spark plug. |
| spark ignition (SI)
| An engine-operating system where the air/fuel mixture is ignited by an electrical spark. |
| spark knock
| A term used for detonation or ping. |
| spark line
| The line on an oscilloscope that indicates the voltage required to fire the spark plug and the number of degrees the distributor turns while the spark exists. |
| Spark Output
| Ford SPOUT The output signal from the processor which troggers the Ignition module to fire the ignition coil |
| spark plug
| An ignition component threaded into the cylinder head that contains two electrodes extending into the cylinder that form a gap across which high-voltage electricity arcs to ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture. |
| spark plug fouling
| An accumulation of deposits on the lower, exposed end of the spark plug that act as an electrical conductor, thereby creating a path for electricity to leak to ground rather than jump across the electrode gap. |
| spark plug heat range
| The temperature limits, hot, normal, or cold, within which a spark plug is designed to operate. It is determined by varying the length of the exposed lower section of the plug ceramic insulator. |
| spark plug well
| The recess in a cylinder head for a spark plug. |
| spark plug wire
| A special high-voltage wire from the distributor cap to the spark plug. |
| spark plug, resistor type
| A spark plug having an electrode resistance of 5,000 to 10,000 ohms to increase electrode life and suppress radio interference. |
| Spark Retard
| Causing less spark advance to be added, resulting in a spark which is introduced later on the compression stroke |
| spark test
| A quick check of the ignition system made by carefully placing a metal end of one of the spark plug wires close to the engine while cranking the engine to see if there is a spark gap and to determine its intensity. |
| spatter
| The metal particles expelled during fusion welding that do not form a part of the weld. |
| spatter paint
| The technique of applying two separate colors of paint simultaneously to provide a speckled finish. |
| SPDT
| Single pole double throw |
| spec car
| 1. A term used for specification car. 2. One car in a group of identical specification cars that form their own racing category with a focus on driving skills. |
| special
| A high-performance, individually built car, such as a prototype. |
| Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)
| A trade association for the automotive aftermarket industry. |
| specialty repair shop
| A term used for specialty service shop. |
| specialty service shop
| A repair shop that specialized in certain vehicle components, such as engine rebuilding, brake repair, radiator repair, and so on. Also known a specialty shop. |
| specialty shop
| A term that may be used for specialty service shop. |
| specialty tire
| Any of several types of tires such as, all-season tire, puncture-sealing tire, snow-and-mud tire, or studded tire. |
| specific gravity
| The ratio of the weight of a given volume of a liquid divided by the weight of an equal volume of pure or distilled water. |
| specific heat
| The quantity of heat required to change one pound of a substance by 1o F. |
| specification car
| One car in a group of identical cars that form their own racing category with a focus on driving skills. Also known as spec car. |
| specifications
| Technical data, numbers, clearances, and measurements used to diagnose and adjust automobile components supplied by the manufacturer. |
| specs
| A term used for specifications. |
| speed
| A rate-of-motion measured in miles per hour or kilometers per hour. |
| speed adjustment
| A term used for idle-speed adjustment. |
| speed bowl
| A short, oval dirt track. |
| Speed Density
| A method of calculating airflow by sensing engine load and intake manfold pressure and other engine sensors. |
| speed flare up
| An operating condition where the engine speeds up without an increase in vehicle speed. |
| speed of light
| Light waves travel at a speed approximately equal to 186,000 miles per second, or 10 ft. per nanosecond. It is the limiting speed of the universe |
| speed rating
| A tire rating that indicates the maximum safe vehicle speed that a tire will withstand. |
| speed ratio
| A comparison of the difference in speed between two moving parts such as impeller speed and turbine speed. |
| speed sensor
| An electrical device that can sense the rotational speed of a shaft or member and transmit this information to another device, such as a readout. |
| speed shift
| 1. To up shift a manual transmission without releasing the accelerator. 2. The art of up shift ing a manual transmission without using the clutch. |
| speedometer
| An instrument, usually dash mounted, used to measure the speed of a vehicle. |
| speedster
| An open, two-passenger roadster. |
| speedway
| 1. A large oval-track racing facility. 2. (Speedway) the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. |
| SPFI
| An acronym for sequential-port fuel injection. |
| spherical joint
| A term used for ball joint. |
| spider
| A set of gears in the differential that allow the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds as the vehicle is cornering. |
| Spider Gears
| See Spider |
| spin
| To skid out of control by 180 degrees or more. |
| spin on filter
| An oil filter having a threaded attachment for the ease and speed of replacement. |
| spindle
| 1. A shaft or stub axle upon which the wheel hub and bearing rides. 2. A shaft which carries either cutting tools or work that is being machined. |
| spinner
| A term used for knock-off hub. |
| spinning balancer
| A balancer that rotates the tire and wheel to determine the amount and location of any unbalanced condition. |
| spiral bevel gears
| A differential ring gear with helical gear teeth. |
| spiral spring
| Springs formed from flat strip of wire wound in the form of a spiral, loaded by torque about an axis, normal to the plane of the spiral. |
| spiral-grooved shock absorber
| An arrangement that is used to reduce the mixture of air with the fluid as it passes through the valves by breaking up the air bubble and, at the same time, reducing lag. |
| SPK
| Spark control system |
| SPK-AVM
| Spark control system-advance vacuum modulator |
| SPK-BVSV
| Spark control system-bimetal vacuum switching valve |
| SPK-CC
| Spark control system-computer controlled |
| SPK-CSSA
| Spark control system-cold start spark advance |
| SPK-CSSH
| Spark control system-cold start spark hold |
| SPK-CTO
| Spark control system-coolant temperature override |
| SPK-DCTO
| Spark control system-dual coolant temperature override |
| SPK-DDD
| Spark control system-dual diaphragm distributor |
| SPK-DMV
| Spark control system-distributor modulator valve |
| SPK-DPVS
| Spark control system-distributor ported vacuum switch |
| SPK-DRCV
| Spark control system-distributor retard control valve |
| SPK-DRS
| Spark control system-distributor retard solenoid |
| SPK-DSVMV
| Spark control system-distributor spark vacuum modulator valve |
| SPK-DTVS
| Spark control system-distributor thermal vacuum switch |
| SPK-DTVV
| Spark control system-distributor thermal vacuum valve |
| SPK-DV
| Spark control system-delay valve |
| SPK-DVA
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum advance |
| SPK-DVAS
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum advance solenoid |
| SPK-DVCS
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum control solenoid |
| SPK-DVCV
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum control valve |
| SPK-DVDV
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum delay valve |
| SPK-DVRS
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum retard switch |
| SPK-DVRV
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum regulating valve |
| SPK-DVVV
| Spark control system-distributor vacuum vent valve |
| SPK-EAVS
| Spark control system-electronically actuated vacuum switch |
| SPK-EDM
| Spark control system-electronic distributor modulator |
| SPK-ESA
| Spark control system-electronic spark advance |
| SPK-ESC
| Spark control system-electronic spark control |
| SPK-ESS
| Spark control system-electronic spark selection system |
| SPK-EST
| Spark control system-electronic spark timing |
| SPK-FDV
| Spark control system-forward delay valve |
| SPK-HPCA
| Spark control system-housing pressure cold advance |
| SPK-ITCS
| Spark control system-ignition timing control system |
| SPK-ITVS
| Spark control system-ignition timing vacuum switch |
| SPK-OSAC
| Spark control system-orifice spark advance control |
| SPK-PVA
| Spark control system-ported vacuum advance |
| SPK-PVS
| Spark control system-ported vacuum switch |
| SPK-RDO
| Spark control system-retard delay orifice |
| SPK-RDV
| Spark control system-reverse delay valve |
| SPK-RDVD
| Spark control system-reverse delay valve dual |
| SPK-RDVS
| Spark control system-reverse delay valve single |
| SPK-SC
| Spark control system-speed controller |
| SPK-SRRV
| Spark control system-spark relay regulator valve |
| SPK-TAVIA
| Spark control system-temperature activated vacuum ignition advance |
| SPK-TCS
| Spark control system-transmission controlled spark |
| SPK-TIDC
| Spark control system-timing control system |
| SPK-TV
| Spark control system-thermal valve |
| SPK-TVS
| Spark control system-thermal vacuum switch |
| SPK-VAC
| Spark control system-vacuum advance solenoid |
| SPK-VACTO
| Spark control system-vacuum advance coolant temperature override |
| SPK-VAV
| Spark control system-vacuum advance valve |
| SPK-VR
| Spark control system-vacuum retard |
| SPK-VSV
| Spark control system-vacuum retard switch |
| SPK-VTCS
| Spark control system-vacuum timing control system |
| splash lubrication
| A non-pressurized system of lubrication, same as splash-feel oil system. |
| splash shield
| A stamped sheet-metal deflector plate located behind the disc-brake rotor providing component protection from dirt and water and improving the flow of air over the rotor. |
| splash-feel oil system
| A type of engine lubrication system in which oil is splashed onto the engine parts to be lubricated. |
| splined discs
| Multiple-disc clutch components splined internally to the side gears or over a special hub on single-pack types. |
| splined yoke
| A consideration to allow the driveshaft length to increase and decrease to accommodate the movement of the rear axle. |
| splines
| The internal or external longitudinal grooves in a gear or shaft that mesh when assembles, causing the gear to turn with the shaft, but allow lateral movement. |
| split brake system
| A service-brake system having tow or more separate fluid, electrical, mechanical, or other circuits. If one circuit fails, full or partial brake actuating capability is retained. |
| split crankcase
| An oil pan split horizontally, in the same plane as the crankshaft, into two or more pieces to simplify service. |
| split guide ring
| Part of a torque converter assembly designed to reduce fluid turbulence and improve efficiency. |
| split pin
| A round, split-spring steel tubular roll pin used for locking purposes, such as a gear to a shaft. |
| split point
| The pressure at which a proportioning valve closes during brake application and reduces the rate at which further pressure is applied to the rear drum brakes. |
| split sump
| A term used for split crankcase. |
| split torque converter
| A design having a simple planetary gear set to divide engine torque between mechanical and hydraulic operation. |
| split valve guide
| A two-piece valve guide used in some older flathead engines with mushroom valves. |
| spoiler
| 1. An aerodynamic device that "spoils" the airflow over the vehicle. 2. A device attached below the front bumper to reduce drag by deflecting air away from the vehicle. 3. A device mounted on the rear deck to provide a downward force. |
| spoke
| The wire-like bracing between the hub and the rim of a wire wheel. |
| spokes
| Wire wheels. |
| sponge lead
| Lead with many small holes used to make a surface porous or songlike for use in battery negative plates. |
| spongy brake pedal
| A condition where the brake pedal is not solid when depressed, but bounces softly. This is caused by air in the hydraulic lines, distortion or stretching of the connecting parts, or swelling of the hydraulic hoses. |
| spongy pedal
| A term used for spongy brake pedal. |
| spontaneous combustion
| The process by which a material ignites and burns by itself. |
| spook
| To psych, distract, or unnerve a competitor at the start of a race. |
| spool
| 1. A final drive without any differential action. 2. A term used for locked rear end. |
| spool valve
| A rod used to control oil flow in an automatic transmission. |
| sport utility vehicle (SUV)
| A very popular truck-like vehicle with a box0like open or enclosed body, generally having a short wheel base, a manual four- or five-speed transmission, and four-wheel drive. |
| sports car
| 1. A two-seated vehicle with a manual transmission built for performance rather than passenger comfort. 2. A vehicle built to incorporate the appearance, performance, and handling of a race car, but retain the qualities and requirements for regular road use. |
| Sports Car Club of America (SCCA)
| A major road-racing sanctioning body. |
| Sports Sedan (SS)
| A pony car under USAC stock car rules. |
| sports vehicle
| A multipurpose vehicle for road and off-road service, generally appealing to the outdoor enthusiast, available in tow-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive having a pickup truck body design with standard cab or extended cab area. Van designs are considered sport vehicles, but for family use. |
| sporty car
| A compact two-door, four-passenger sports-styled coupe or convertible having a long hood and a short deck. |
| spot on
| 1. A critical measurement. 2. Absolutely correct or accurate. |
| spot putty
| A body filler for slight dents and scratches. |
| spot repair
| A small repair such as a scratch or dent. |
| spot weld
| A weld made between or upon overlapping members in which bonding may start and occur on the mating surfaces or may proceed from the outer surface of one member. |
| SPOUT
| Spout is the abbreviation for Spark Output which is the output line from the Electronic Control Unit to the Ignition Module. |
| sprag
| 1. A figure-eight-shaped locking element of a one-way sprag clutch. 2.A one-way clutch used in an automatic transmission. |
| sprag clutch
| 1. A device containing numerous oblong parts, called sprags, that operate by tilting between an inner and outer race to lock up when the outer race is turned in one direction and to slip when it is turned in the opposite direction. 2. A one-way clutch having cam-profiled locking elements that engage cylindrical outer and inner races. |
| spray
| The atomization of a liquid into a fine mist. |
| spread bore carburetor
| A four-barrel carburetor having small primary and large secondary barrels. |
| spread tandem suspension
| A two-axle assembly in which the axles are spaced to allow maximum axle loads under existing regulations, usually more than 55 inches (140 cm). |
| spring
| 1. Small steel coils that are used to close the intake and exhaust valves when the cam lobes release pressure on the valve stem. 2. A steel or composite elastic leaf- or coil-like device that compresses as it absorbs energy and returns to its original position when it releases that energy. |
| spring back
| The tendency of a material to return to its original shape or near its original shape after being bent. |
| spring bind
| A term used for coil bind. |
| spring break chamber
| 1. A device used with brake-foundation assemblies as a fail safe unit that automatically applies the truck's service brakes in the event of an air loss. 2. A device used as a parking brake and is used with cam and wedge-type foundation brakes. |
| spring break valve
| 1. A device that limits the hold-off pressure to the spring-brake chambers via a relay valve or quick release valve. 2. A device that provides a modulated spring-brake application to the front axle proportional to the service braking pressure whenever a loss of pressure occurs. |
| spring chair
| A term used for axle seat. |
| spring energized
| A one-way roller clutch that has the rollers held in contact with the cam and race by individual springs, or by means of a spring-actuated cage. |
| spring eye
| The main spring-leaf end that is formed in a O-shape for placement of the rubber spring-mounting bushings. |
| spring hanger
| The vehicle-frame bracket for the eye at the front of the rear leaf spring. |
| spring leaf
| A long, flat section of spring steel making up all or part of a leaf spring. |
| spring leaf insert
| Small, replaceable composition pads placed between the spring leaves near the ends to aid in slippage between the leaves while they are flexing. |
| spring load
| A measure, in pounds or kilograms, of how much weight a spring can support, generally at the installed height. |
| spring oscillation
| Continued compression and rebound motion of a spring, after the wheel has encountered a bump or hole on the road surface, which diminishes gradually, depending on the condition of the shock. |
| spring pin
| A small piece of metal rolled in a pin-like manner that is used to dowel small parts that may occasionally have to be disassembled and reassembled. |
| spring rate
| The relationship of spring deflection to lead applied, such as the amount of weight, in pounds per inch or newtons per millimeter, required to deflect the rear spring. |
| spring retainer
| The element which locates and provides reaction for the spring in a one-way roller clutch. |
| spring sag
| The loss of spring load due to overloading and/or metal fatigue. |
| spring seat
| The recess in a chassis where a coil spring is mounted. |
| spring shackle
| A small, swing-arm attachment at the rear of the leaf spring to allow the spring to flex. |
| spring torque windup
| A term used for a Hotchkiss drive. |
| spring walk
| The tendency of a valve spring to bounce around in its seat at high-engine speed. |
| spring windup
| The slight S-shape assumed by the leaf spring during extreme acceleration and braking that may be controlled by traction bars on high-performance vehicles. |
| springy thingy
| A dragster that has a light, flexible structure to allow for maximum weight transfer. |
| sprint car
| A single-seat, front-engine car designed for short oval tracks. |
| sprint race
| A short race of a few laps on an oval track. |
| sprocket
| A sheet-like disk with teeth around its outer perimeter that mesh with a belt or chain. |
| sprocket pitch
| The dimension between the centers where the rollers would be bedded against the bottoms of adjacent tooth spaces. |
| sprocket-pitch diameter
| The pitch diameter of a sprocket used in a synchronous belt drive that coincides with the belt pitch line and is always greater than the sprocket outside diameter. |
| sprung weight
| The mass of the vehicle that is supported by the springs, including the body, engine and transmission. |
| SPS
| An acronym for Speed Sensitive Power Steering |
| SPST
| Single pole single throw |
| spun bearing
| Any bearing on the crankshaft that has seized on the journal and turned in the housing bore. |
| spur gear
| A transmission or differential gear having teeth cut straight across its face, parallel to the rotational axis. |
| SPX
| [1] A tool and equipment manufacturer |
| spyder
| 1. A light, two-person, horse-drawn carriage. 2. A light, two-person roadster. |
| square engine
| An engine in which the bore and stroke dimensions are the same. |
| square wave
| A repetitive waveform whose shape is essentially square or rectangular, usually with equal on and off times. |
| square-cut piston seal
| A fixed seal for a caliper piston that has a squar cross section. |
| squarely
| Poor handling. |
| squash area
| A term used for quench area. |
| squeak
| A high-pitched noise of short duration. |
| squeegee
| 1. A flexible rubber block used to apply glazing putty and light coats of body filler. 2. A metal-backed rubber blade having a handle used to clean windshields. |
| Squib
| A pyrotechnic term used for a fire cracker that burns but does not explode. The squib starts the process of air bag deployment |
| squirrel
| A driver that cannot handle a vehicle very well. |
| squirt hole
| 1. A hole in the side of a connecting rod in an OHV engine which squirts oil toward the camshaft. 2. A hole in the pin end of a connecting rod to squirt oil to the underside of a piston for cooling. |
| squirt racing
| A term used for drag racing. |
| squish
| The action where some compressed air/fuel mixture is pushed out of a decreasing space between the piston and cylinder head of the combustion chambers in some engines. |
| Sr
| [1] Strontium An element with the atomic number of 38 [2] An acronym for street roadster |
| SREA
| An acronym for Street Rod Equipment Association, now known as Street Rod Market Association. |
| SRMA
| An acronym for Street Rod Market Association. |
| SRRV
| Spark relay regulator valve |
| SRS
| Supplemental restraint system or spark retard system |
| SRW
| An acronym for single rear wheel. |
| SS
| 1. An acronym for stainless steel. 2. An acronym for Super Stock, Sports Sedan, and Showroom Stock. |
| SS ¾-4/3
| Shift solenoid ¾- 4/3 |
| SS1
| Shift solenoid 1 |
| SS2
| Shift solenoid 2 |
| SS3
| Shift solenoid 3 |
| SSA
| An acronym for Suspension Specialists Association. A trade association of heavy-duty service facilities and suppliers |
| SSC
| Stepped speed control or solid state component or solid state control |
| SSCA
| Stepped speed control actuator |
| SSCS
| Stepped speed control solenoid |
| SSDA
| An acronym for the Service Station Dealers of America. |
| SSI
| Solid state ignition |
| SSR
| Solid state relay |
| ST
| Scan tool |
| stabilize
| To keep from fluctuating. |
| stabilize bar link
| A device that connects the lower control arm to the stabilizer bar. |
| stabilizer
| A device that uses the torsional resistance of a steel bar to reduce the roll of a vehicle and prevent too great a difference in the spring action at the two front wheels. |
| stabilizer bar
| A long, spring-steel bar attached to the cross member and interconnects the lower control arm that twists like a torsion bar during turns to transmit cornering forces from one side of the vehicle to the other to help equalize wheel loads and prevent excessive leaning. |
| stabilizing ball joint
| A term used for non-load-carrying ball joint. |
| stacked pattern
| A term used for raster pattern. |
| stacks
| A term used for velocity stacks. |
| stage
| To place a competition vehicle in a proper starting position. |
| staged turbos
| turbocharger in series, one feeding the other. |
| staggered timing camshaft
| A camshaft ground so as to provide a longer duration for the cylinders farthest away from the main intake tract to equalize the amount of fuel mixture reaching all of the cylinders. |
| staging area
| The area between the pits and starting line in drag racing where the cars are lined up. |
| staging lane
| 1. Lanes within the staging area where cars are grouped according to class. |
| staging lights
| The light beams used in drag racing to guide the front wheels of a car into proper position. |
| stainless steel (SS)
| A steel alloy that is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. |
| staking
| 1. Securing a part, such as a bearing, in place by exerting pressure around the opening by punching or peening. 2. To punch or chisel an indentation into two touching parts so that one of the parts cannot turn against the other. |
| stall
| 1. A work area. 2. To come to a stop because the engine failed. 3. The disruption of air flow around the air foil. 4. A condition where the engine is operating and the transmission is in gear, but the drive wheels are not turning because the turbine of the torque converter is not moving. |
| stall speed
| The maximum possible engine and torque converter impeller speed, measured in RPM, with the turbine held stationary and the engine throttle wide open. |
| stall test
| A starter-motor test of the current draw made when the motor is stalled. |
| stall-torque test
| A starting system test that determines pound-feet or newton-meters of torque developed by the armature when restrained from rotating by a special measuring instrument attached to the drive pinion gear. |
| stand off
| The fine mist of air/fuel mixture that may be forced back into the carburetor during timing overlap when the intake and exhaust valves are open. |
| stand on it
| [1] To hold the accelerator to the floor. [2] A poular novel based on actual events credited to a fictitious driver, Stroker Ace, and believed to be hilarious by most race enthusiasts. |
| stand-alone
| Refers to a device that is self-contained, one that does not require any other devices to function. |
| standard bolt-and-nut torque specifications
| A chart showing the standard torque recommendations for standard English and metric sizes of bolts and nuts. |
| standard English measurements
| The English system of measure that includes feet, inches, miles, gallons, pounds, ounces, and so on. |
| standard operating procedures (SOP)
| 1. The way things are generally done. 2. The routine of things. |
| standard temperature and pressure (STP)
| A set of engineering reference conditions for dealing with gases with temperature equal to 273.15?K and pressure equal to 101.325 pascal. |
| standard ton
| A term often used for short ton. |
| standard transmission
| A transmission that must be manually shifted into the various gears. |
| standing kilometer
| The international standards for acceleration records for a kilometer taken from a dead stop over a measured distance. |
| standing mile
| The international standards for acceleration records for a mile taken from a dead stop over a measured mile. |
| standing quarter mile
| 1. The length of a typical drag-race course. 2. The acceleration from a dead stop to the end of a measured quarter mile. |
| standpipe
| A type of check valve that prevents a reverse flow of the lubricant that becomes liquid due to heat generated during operation. It prevents the loss of lubrication at start up when the lubricant has cooled and is solidus. |
| standpipe assembly
| A term used for vapor-liquid separator. |
| Stant
| A cooling system tool manufacturer |
| STAR
| Self test automatic readout Ford Scan tool |
| star connection
| The interconnection of 3 electrical-equipment windings in star or wye fashion, as in an alternator. |
| star fastener
| A term used for Torx fastener. |
| star wheel
| A mall wheel that is part of a drum brake adjusting link. |
| star wheel adjusting screw
| A toothed wheel that is manually or automatically rotated to expand the brake shoes outward as the lining wears. |
| starter
| A small electric motor used to turn the engine for starting. |
| starter circuit
| The electrical system that carries the low and high current power to the starter components required to start the vehicle. |
| starter drive
| The part of the starter motor that engages the armature-mounted pinion gear to the engine-flywheel ring gear. |
| starter motor
| A small electric motor used to turn the engine for starting. |
| starter motor drive
| A term used for starter drive. |
| starter relay
| A magnetic switch, generally operated by the ignition switch, that uses low current to close a circuit to control the flow of very high current to the starter. |
| starter ring gear
| A relatively large diameter starter-driven gear attached over the torque converter or flywheel flex-drive plate. |
| starter safety switch
| An electrical switch that prevents the starting of a vehicle with an automatic transmission while in gear. |
| starter solenoid
| A magnetic switch, energize by the ignition switch, that shifts the starter-drive pinion gear into the flywheel ring gear, then closes the electric circuit to the starter. |
| starting motor
| A term used for starter motor. |
| starting motor drive
| A term used for starter drive. |
| starving
| A condition where: 1. The evaporator does not get enough refrigerant to properly function. 2. The engine does not get enough fuel and/or air to function. |
| state of charge
| The degree or the amount in percentage that a battery is charged. A fully charged battery would be 100% charged |
| state of the art
| 1. A phrase that implies being up-to-date in technology. 2. Pertaining to the latest technology. 3. Using the latest scientific or engineering developments. |
| static
| 1. The state in which a quantity does not change appreciably within an arbitrarily long period of time. 2. A body at rest. |
| static balance
| A process of checking and/or correcting wight distribution of interrelated parts while they are not in motion. |
| static friction
| The friction between two bodies at rest. |
| static pressure
| The pressure of a vapor or liquid in a mainarea or system under ambient temperature conditions with no load imposed. |
| static pressure seal
| No movement between the sealing surfaces, such as the oil pan to engine. |
| static seal
| A seal that prevents fluid passage between two parts that are in fixed positions relative to each other. |
| static system pressure
| The pressure of a vapor or liquid in a system under ambient temperature conditions with no load imposed. |
| static tension
| The tension in the belt when the drive is at rest, a factor that determines drive efficiency, service life, or other operating characteristics. |
| static timing
| To set the ignition timing on an engine that is not running. |
| static voltage
| Voltage at rest or stored, not moving in the circuit. |
| statically balanced
| A tire or other rotating device that is balanced at rest so that it will not turn when free to do so because its weight mass is distributed evenly around the circumference of the tire or the axis of rotation. |
| station wagon
| An enclosed two- to nine-passenger vehicle which is characterized by it's roof, extending for the length of the vehicle, allowing a spacious interior cargo area in the rear and having a rear door or hatch to provide access. |
| stationary fifth wheel
| A non-movable fifth wheel whose location on the tractor frame is fixed. |
| Statistic Filtering
| The control module internally charts the reselts of diagnostic testing over a perion of time and creates a baseline for testing. |
| statistical filtering
| The PCM internally charts the results of diagnostic testing over a period of time and creates a baseline for testing. By doing this, the PCM is able to filter out information that could cause a false DTC to set. |
| stator
| 1. A reaction device or member unit inside the torque converter, mounted on a one-way roller or sprag clutch, having vanes to redirect the fluid flow that discharges from the turbine center back toward the impeller at an angle most advantageous to torque multiplication. 2. A stationary field having three windings to provide overlapping, three-phase electrical pulses to smooth the current flow. |
| stator assembly
| The reaction member or torque multiplier that is supported in a free-wheel roller race splined to the valve and front support assembly. |
| Stator Gain
| The increase in voltage, amperage, or wattage in the alternators stator |
| stator support
| A part of the transmission pump housing in which the stator assembly in a torque converter locks. |
| steady rest
| A journal support on a camshaft or crankshaft grinder to prevent vibration. |
| steam engine
| An external-combustion engine operated by steam generated from a boiler. |
| steam holes
| Passages designed to permit the flow of steam in an engine cooling system in hot spot areas where steam is expected to collect. |
| steam rollers
| Huge drag-racing slicks. |
| steel
| Refined iron metal with most of the carbon removed. |
| steel ship gasket
| The same as corrugated metal gasket. |
| steelies
| Wheels made of ferrous material. |
| steering arm
| An arm that is attached to the steering knuckle that turns the knuckle and wheel for steering. |
| steering axis
| The vertical line through the centerline of the upper and lower pivot- or ball-joints on a steered wheel. |
| steering axis inclination
| (SAI) The angle of a line through the center of the upper strut mount and lower ball joint in relation to the true vertical centerline of the tire, viewed from the front of the vehicle. |
| steering box
| A general term used for the steering mechanism at the end of the steering column. |
| steering brake
| A braking system that provides separate control for the left and right rear wheels as an aid in steering around curves and/or correcting a pull to either side in some off-road vehicles. |
| steering column
| Tubing through which the steering shaft mounts and rotates, providing a surface for the mounting of the hazard switch, turn signal switch, ignitions switch, and transmission selector or shifter. |
| steering column shift
| An arrangement where the transmission shifter is mounted on the steering column. |
| steering damper
| A device that reduces or eliminates road shock and vibration. |
| steering drift
| The tendency of the steering to gradually drift to either side when the vehicle is driven straight ahead on a smooth, level road surface, generally caused by improper caster or camber or an under-inflated tire. Also known as steering pull. |
| steering gear
| The assembly that converts motion from the steering column to the pitman arm. |
| steering geometry
| The relationship of the steering linkage and the wheels to the road affected by caster, camber, scrub radius, steering offset, toe in , and toe out. |
| steering kickback
| The shock felt in the steering wheel as the front wheels encounter obstructions in the road. |
| steering knuckle
| The part around which each front wheel pivots as it is steered. |
| steering linkage
| The assembly of tie rods, idler arms, and links that transfer steering motion from the steering gear box to the steering spindles with the rods, pivoting joints, and supporting parts that transfer steering motion from the pitman arm to both knuckle arms. |
| steering linkage damper
| A shock-absorber type device that connects the steering linkage to the framework of the vehicle and absorbs some of the road shock and dampens most of the vibrations. |
| steering lock
| A locking device on the steering column that prevents steering wheel rotation and/or selector lever motion unless unlocked using an ignition key. |
| steering offset
| A term used for scrub radius. |
| steering pull
| The tendency of the steering to gradually pull to the right or left when the vehicle is driven straight ahead on a smooth, level road surface, generally caused by improper caster or camber or an under inflated tire. Also known as steering drift. |
| steering ratio
| 1. The ratio of the worm to the sector. 2. the ratio of the rack to the pinion. |
| steering sector
| A term used for sector gear. |
| steering shaft
| A shaft that extends from the steering wheel toward the gearbox through the steering column. |
| steering spindle
| A term used for spindle. |
| steering system
| The mechanism that permits the driver to change vehicle direction by turning a wheel inside the vehicle. |
| steering terminology
| Terms that apply to steering, such as bump steer, memory steer, steering pull, steering wander, and torque steer. |
| steering wander
| The tendency of the steering to pull to the right or left when the vehicle is driven straight ahead on a smooth road surface that may be caused by improper caster adjustment. |
| steering wheel
| The wheel, located at the top of the steering shaft, which the driver uses to steer the vehicle. |
| steering wheel centering
| The procedure of turning both tie-rod couplings equally in the proper direction to correctly position the steering-wheel spokes, and placing the steering gears on their high (center) position. |
| steering wonder
| The tendency of a vehicle to pull to one side when driving straight ahead. |
| steering-and-ignition lock
| A device that locks the ignition open and, at the same time, locks the steering wheel in position so it cannot be turned. |
| Stellite
| A tradename for a very hard alloy made from cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), and tungsten (W) used for valve-seat inserts. |
| stem-type service valve
| A service valve requiring a special wrench be affixed to a stem for opening and closing. |
| stemming
| A condition where the valve radius section has corroded to the extend that it has a smaller diameter than the stem. |
| step
| 1. The raised portion of a chassis providing added clearance over the axle. 2. a term used for stepped flywheel. 3. A raised portion on one part so another part can be joined to it. |
| step ratio
| A transmission with steps or gear ratios, such as four steps for a four-speed transmission. |
| Step side
| The tradename of a popular pickup truck by Chevrolet. |
| Step-down transformer
| A transformer that produces a lower voltage at its secondary output than is applied to its primary input. |
| step-up transformer (coil)
| A transformer in which the secondary winding has more turns than the primary winding. |
| stepless transmission
| A transmission withou |
Auto & Car Glossary